FLATS No. 800

FLATS No. 800 | Chicago, IL

RTM is providing the design of MEP/FP systems for the redevelopment of the Bush Temple of Music, a building on the National Register of Historic Places in Chicago. The 107,200-square-foot building, designed in the French Renaissance Revival “Chateauesque” style by J.E.O. Pridmore, was completed in 1902 and provided space for cultural events and tenants involved in the arts. The building also once served as the headquarters and showroom for the Gerts Piano Company.

Attention will be paid to maintaining the historical integrity of the building. Renovation of the six-story structure will include restoration of the basement into a fitness center, first-floor retail, and the conversion of floors two through six from office use to market-rate apartments. The completed project will feature residential units that range from 350 to 450 square feet and will offer affordable rent options for interested residents. Additional amenities include a rooftop deck, bike storage, and public and private common spaces.

With regard to the residential units, a variable refrigerant flow (VRF) system was selected to provide heating and cooling. This system incorporates the flexibility necessary for meeting the varied loads found in the micro-apartments while its pipework’s minimal intrusion allows for the preservation of existing finishes.

High ceilings are present in a few of the top-floor units due to the steeply pitched roof of the building. Because of this, heat recovery is being utilized as an energy efficient method to maximize thermal comfort. RTM also designed a dedicated outdoor air unit (DOAS) to supply tempered makeup air into the building, which offsets the exhaust requirements and any extra infiltration due to stack effect.